Fly Stitch

A fly stitch is also called Y stitch as it resembles the alphabet Y and it is also known as open loop stitch because a V-shaped loop is fastened by a vertical straight stitch. Other variations of this stitch includes closed, open, whipped and reversed stitch. This stitch is most suitable for creating borders and crazy quilting. The stitch is often used in stitching grass or borders in a plant shape. The stitch best represents twigs and grass.

 

To work Fly stitch, design is to be traced on the fabric which is tightened by an embroidery hoop. The fabric should always be kept taut and design must be kept straight. The needle is to be brought out of the fabric and turned towards the left of the line which is to be stitched. In the next step, thread is to be held tight and needle should be inserted to the right side of the line from where it originated.

A small stitch is to be made downwards in the center. A small loop is created by wrapping the thread below the needle. Row of the stitches is to be finished, by working the thread on the backside and below the stitches, that have already been created.

Few tips are to be kept in mind, while working this stitch. Firstly, the thread should be held tight behind the fabric and tyeing a knot should be avoided. After a few stitches, thread is secured and you can easily continue the stitch work. Secondly, knot should be avoided even when the stitching work is done, because it might be visible from the front side.